7 Smartphone Apps for Contractors and Freelancers

Freelancing is a competitive industry and whether you’re a freelance consultant or an IT contractor, to be successful when you go it alone, you have to stay ahead of the game - and organisation and time management are key.

Thanks to today’s fast-moving world of technology, smartphones are now available with a variety of apps specifically targeted at contractors, all designed to make your life easier - so you can stay focused wherever you are. If you’re looking for ways to make contracting as stress-free as possible, we’ve put together a list of the top 7 smartphone apps every contractor needs to be successful in the industry. 

1. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a social networking platform specifically targeted at professionals. Downloading the LinkedIn app will not only allow you remote access to your profile, it will also allow you to view new connections as they come in - meaning you can respond to potential clients more efficiently and jump on potential opportunities the second they present themselves.

Available: iOS, Android, Blackberry & Windows

Cost: Free

2. Google Apps

For anyone in the freelancing industry, Google apps will act as a lifeline. By downloading this one app, you can manage your emails, spreadsheets, documents and calendar from one resource.

Available: iOS Android & Windows

Cost: Free

3. 24me

If you think your business could benefit from having a personal assistant, the 24me app provides all the practicality of a PA without the cost. 24me can send you automated notifications to alert you of upcoming tasks - meaning you never have to miss an important deadline again.

Available: iOS, Android

Cost: Free

4. Toggl Timer

Toggl is a fantastic way to keep track of how much time you’re spending on certain projects and how much of your working day is billable. Now available as an app, the Toggl Timer is a must-have for anyone branching out into contracting or freelancing - as it allows you to monitor your time efficiently and get the most from the hours you spend working.

Available: iOS & Android

Cost: Free

5. Wunderlist

If you’re forever wasting time writing to-do lists that you never actually action, the Wunderlist app will help you be more productive - and it’s also a great way to combine your personal life with your job. From client-work to planning what to have for dinner, this app is ideal for those who work on the move - and your lists can also be shared, meaning you can quickly inform others of your schedule or plans.

Available: iOS, Android & Windows

Cost: Free

6. Pomodoro Keeper

Working solo means all the responsibility falls on you and one of the biggest problems that freelancers face is how to balance their workload without burning out. While some of the apps we’ve mentioned are great for organisation, how are you actually going to stay focused? With the Pomodoro Keeper app, you can keep track of the time you spend making calls and sorting through emails, which allows you to effectively manage your client time.

Available: iOS, Android & Windows

Cost: Free

7. Journey Pro

When you’re working as a freelancer or contractor, you will find yourself travelling more than ever before as you venture further afield for work, to network or to meet with clients - and Journey Pro is the perfect travelling companion. Covering a variety of platforms including tubes, train times, bus routes and flights, this app works in real time, allowing you to alert clients of delays as soon as they happen.

Available: iOS & Windows

Cost: Free

So whether you’re new to contracting or a seasoned pro looking to manage your time more efficiently, these free apps are guaranteed to help keep you organised and provide a more professional service. Get downloading!